Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, in power since 2010, promotes a Christian-conservative agenda and in 2021 banned the “promotion of homosexuality” among under-18s despite strong criticism from left-wing groups and the European Union.

His government has said the 2021 law is meant to protect children and does not target the LGBTQ+ community, but it has caused anxiety among gay, bisexual and transgender Hungarians

Thirty-year-old Anna Reti, who took part in the march in the capital, told Reuters that many LGBTQ+ Hungarians face discrimination and hostility in everyday life. She mentioned an instance when she was “wearing rainbow accessories and people stared”.

Gay marriage is not recognized in Hungary and only heterosexual couples can legally adopt children. Hungary’s constitution defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman.

Some book dealers faced fines last year for selling homosexuality-themed publications without the sealed plastic wrapping required by law.

Ahead of Saturday’s march, the embassies of the United States, Germany, and 33 other countries urged Hungary to protect LGBTQ+ rights and scrap laws that discriminate against members of the community.